Washdown-ready, smooth-body gear units, motors and variable frequency drives (photo) bring an innovative alternative to expensive, bulky stainless steel, while nsd tupH provides these units with even greater protection for food. The nsd tupH sealed-surface conversion system is not a paint, but a patented chromate-free chemical process that changes the physical properties of aluminum housing, creating a surface that is 6–7 times harder than the original aluminum. After the process is complete, the housing receives an additional sealant that is resistant to contact corrosion from acids and alkalis (entire pH range), will not flake, and will not propagate damage when impacted or scratched. Because of the unique properties of nsd tupH, this company’s aluminum gear units, motors and variable frequency drives treated with it perform comparably to traditional stainless-steel units, yet are much lighter and cost considerably less. Units that go through the surface conversion process comply with FDA Title 21 CFR 175.300, a statute that outlines acceptable food-safe surface treatments and coatings. — NORD Gear Corp., Waunakee, Wis.